QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
The electron geometry of a water molecule is tetrahedral even though the molecular geometry is bent.
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Answer
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Step 1: Understand the problem
We need to explain why the electron geometry of a water molecule is tetrahedral even though the molecular geometry is bent. This requires understanding the difference between electron geometry and molecular geometry.
Step 2: Differentiate electron geometry and molecular geometry
- Electron geometry refers to the three-dimensional shape of the electron cloud around an atom. It is determined by the number of electron pairs (both bonding and lone) in the valence shell. - Molecular geometry, on the other hand, refers to the three-dimensional shape of a molecule, taking into account only the arrangement of atoms.
Final Answer
The electron geometry of a water molecule is tetrahedral due to the arrangement of electron pairs around the central oxygen atom. The molecular geometry is bent or V-shaped due to the presence of lone pairs on the central atom, which occupy more space and cause a decrease in the bond angle between the hydrogen atoms.
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